Experimental study on the effects of n-butanol and n-propanol on the spray and combustion characteristics of diesel/biodiesel blends in a constant volume combustion chamber

The depletion of fossil fuel resources and the escalating environmental impact of greenhouse gas emissions have intensified the global exploration of renewable and sustainable energy sources. Biodiesel produced from vegetable oils and animal fats has become a promising alternative to conventional diesel fuel due to its renewability and lower carbon emission. This study investigates the differences in spray, combustion and flame characteristics between soybean-based biodiesel blended with propanol and butanol at various ratios. The results indicate that the liquid spray penetration length of biodiesel mixed with propanol and butanol exceeds that of soybean-based biodiesel. And the increase of spray penetration is accompanied by a longer flame lift-off length, which indicates the improvement of spray characteristics. Regarding combustion, alcohol-fuel blends exhibit a reduction in peak combustion pressure but an increase in peak apparent heat release rate. Additionally, these fuels show a shorter ignition delay and combustion duration. The peak natural flame luminosity is lower for alcohol fuels, suggesting their potential to reduce carbon soot production and support low-carbon combustion. These experimental results contribute to advancing research on cleaner, more efficient and renewable fuels, thereby reducing reliance on conventional fossil fuels.